Let’s say it: holiday gift-planning can be stressful, especially when left to the last-minute. We’re here to make holiday shopping both seamless and special for you with this list of 30A essentials. Each is reflective of our 30A lifestyle and also meant to highlight one of our most favorite things: gathering with loved ones.
We have a feeling these are surely to delight everyone on your list. What other 30A gifts would you add to yours?
Destination-Inspired Goodies
Sure, you’ll find plenty of WaterColor-branded essentials at the WaterColor Store, complete with perfectly curated winter essentials like sweatshirts and hoodies a but you’ll also find a variety of holiday-themed goodies, too, including custom-painted ornaments and Christmas-themed WaterColor-branded tees. All this in addition to the store’s expertly curated selection of active wear, locally crafted jewelry and even the ideal drinkware for keeping your winter beverages warm.
Shopping for the little ones on your list? Head to WaterColor Kids at 6 WaterColor Blvd. The newly opened specialty children’s clothing outfitter features baby accessories, children’s clothing from brands like Pepita & Me, Miki Miette, Appaman and more, children’s jewelry by Carrie Rhea, fashion backpacks, toys and a wide selection of beach essentials and WaterColor-branded novelty items, of course! Nearby, at the WaterColor Package Store, you’ll find a small selection of specialty gift items, such as locally beloved “Theo the Stuffed Turtle,” proceeds from which go towards protect sea turtles in Northwest Florida.
Toasting Essentials
Stock up on unique liquors, fine wines and local craft beers at the WaterColor Package Store – perfect for gifting and toasting – at the WaterColor Package Store. The shop’s curated collection includes Fish Out of Water favorites like Duckhorn Decoy Flavored Seltzers, Grayton Beer Company Beers, Heathen Wines and Casa Dragones Joven Tequila, as well as WaterColor-inspired barware and specialty gifts. Looking to gift something really special? You’ll also find rare items like E.H. Taylor Rye, Eagle Rare and even Louis XIII de Remy Martin Cognac Grande Champagne.
Coffee for Life (Kind of)
Give the coffee enthusiast(s) in your life the gift that keeps on flowing with a year-long membership to Scratch Biscuit Kitchen’s “Mug Club.” In addition to major bragging rights, they’ll get their own personal Mug Club YETI, which gets them $1 unlimited coffee with every visit. For good measure, add in a Scratch gift card to complement their fresh cup of Joe with some house-made biscuits. Cheers to that!
Time Well Spent
There’s simply no better gift than that of experiences, and thanks to a variety of gift cards available through our St. Joe Collection, we’ve got everyone on your list covered! Gift the foodies in your life a special dinner at Havana Beach Bar & Grill or Fish Out of Water. Pamper the busy and tired mom with a coastal-inspired treatment at Spa Pearl. Give the ultimate beach experience with gift cards to WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel, WaterSound Inn and, our newest properties, The Lodge 30A and Camp Creek Inn (just remember to work yourself into the vacation, too!).
The Gift of the Outdoors
Send the outdoor lovers in your life on an adventure with gift cards from the BoatHouse Paddle Club at the WaterColor BoatHouse. Gift them a kayaking or standup paddleboard rental for the day or pick from an array of classes on the water, which include everything from a run-and-SUP workout to SUP yoga. They’ll be thrilled with the thoughtful gift and be one step closer to crushing those New Year’s resolutions.
A vacation spent along Florida’s famous Scenic Highway 30A is truly an escape – the area is blessed with beautiful white sand beaches, idyllic beach towns and an abundance of preserved natural areas, with walking and biking paths (not to mention a Scenic America-designated National Scenic Byway) connecting them all. What visitors and locals love most about this stretch of coast is the opportunity to unplug and unwind, and what makes it such an ideal vacation destination is the ease of doing just that!
While the majority of rentals in the area are houses, townhouses and condos, for those who’d truly like to take a break and let front desk personnel and professional hospitality staff onsite ensure a successful stay, the St. Joe Company offers five unique inns and hotels to choose from. Each offers its own advantages in terms of location and amenities, but all provide an elevated hospitality experience that makes your stay a true vacation.
Camp Creek InnSM (New!)
684 Fazio Dr. | Watersound
Perfect for the golf enthusiast, the Camp Creek Inn is a 75-room boutique hotel that offers guests a private club “Member for a Stay” experience, including access to private Watersound Club® amenities including onsite health, wellness, and recreational facilities, Watersound Beach Club®amenities, and Shark’s Tooth and Camp Creek golf courses. The ground floor serves as a clubhouse featuring a high-end golf outfitter shop and two dining venues, ANR and 1936, while the guest rooms are located on the second and third floors. Nestled between the Camp Creek® Golf Course and the 11,000-square-foot wellness center, the inn offers rooms with views overlooking the golf course, making it the perfect place to stay when your mind is on the green. Having access to the incredible Watersound Club amenities, the inn is ideal for a wellness retreat geared towards anyone looking to relax and recharge while enjoying a taste of the Watersound Club Membership experience.
The Lodge 30A (New!)
4271 E. County Hwy 30A | Seagrove Beach
Inspired by the beauty of its natural surroundings and with an idyllic location in the heart of Seagrove Beach and along the Point Washington State Forest , The Lodge 30A is an ideal destination for exploring nearby state parks, coastal dune lakes and beaches. The select-service boutique hotel offers guests all of the essentials – including kitchenettes in every room, a fitness center and an outdoor pool – without any of the fuss, including the most affordable rates on 30A! Additionally, situated within Greenway Station, the hotel is just steps from some of the area’s trendiest and newest shops and restaurants.
The Pearl Hotel
63 Main St. | Rosemary Beach
The Pearl Hotel’s commitment to excellence and luxury is reflected in an intimate setting where patrons are offered respite and calm alongside breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and the town of Rosemary Beach. Visitors can unwind at the hotel’s Spa Pearl, where they’ll enjoy signature body treatments and massages delivered at four private poolside treatment rooms.
For a spectacular culinary experience, claim a table at Havana Beach Bar & Grill, the hotel’s AAA Four-Diamond restaurant. The chef-driven, seasonal menu is a fusion of Gulf Coast and Caribbean cuisine and can be enjoyed in the colorful, Cuban-inspired dining room, on the veranda, in the lounge, or on the rooftop. The ultimate getaway for couples looking for luxury, the Pearl also offers amenities including a private beach with complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas, valet parking, a welcome reception with a complimentary beverage, use of bicycles, signature bath amenities, an adults-only outdoor pool with towels and food service, as well as snacks and a departure gift.
WaterColor Inn® & Resort
34 Goldenrod Circle | WaterColor
Families love WaterColor Inn & Resort, where 10 pools, multiple dining options, beachfront rooms and newly created family suites offer everything one could want to keep the entire group happy and occupied. WaterColor Inn is a AAA Four-Diamond hotel whose amenities leave little room to wonder why it has won so many awards. Dining options include casual coastal cuisine at Fish Out of Water® and WaterColor Grill, burgers and shakes at the Beach Cow® counter-service restaurant, a twist on Baha-Mexican fare at Costa Chica, snacks and camp-inspired faves at The Canteen, and an elevated international take on bar food served inside or poolside at Gather Kitchen + Bar. Guests enjoy access to WaterColor Beach Club and its amenities, including three pools, as well as Camp WaterColor, which boasts two pools with slides in addition to a lazy river, playground and basketball court. Other perks include complimentary house-made biscotti and assorted fruits upon arrival; complimentary adult bicycle rental; access to the cardio fitness room; guest floor treat suites including complimentary sodas, ice cream, coffee, snacks and more; a beach bag for use during your stay; housekeeping services offered twice a day (including a nightly evening service with freshly baked treats); and a departure gift.
WaterSoundSM Inn
6652 E. County Hwy 30A | Watersound Beach
Ideal for enjoying a private family escape, aWatersound Inn vacation offers a home-away-from-home experience with the luxury of resort. Located in the famed Gatehouse building overlooking the WaterSound Beach community, the inn boasts a contemporary Nantucket-style design and decor with 11 condo-sized suites offering comfortable furnishings, private balconies, laundry, and a full kitchen. With picturesque views from the second and third floors, the inn also extends guests access to the Watersound Beach Club amenities and its 7,000-square-foot, zero-entry pool, dining venues, al fresco bar, beach access and complimentary beach setup. Watersound Inn guests also enjoy access to the WaterSound Beach fitness center, and private Watersound ClubSM golf courses, including Camp Creek® and Shark’s Tooth golf courses.
As the premier hospitality management company in Northwest Florida, The St. Joe Company‘s award-winning properties are not only among the area’s most luxurious but have stunning views, too – bringing the sights and sounds of the Gulf Coast to every stay.
WaterColor Inn, the only beachfront hotel on 30A, brings the outdoors mere steps from its David Rockwell-designed rooms, which have been recently reimagined to include new flooring, furnishings and décor. The room’s modern coastal design reflects WaterColor’s casual elegance and provides the serenity of a seaside oasis for each guest. Additionally, each private balcony comes equipped with a pair of Adirondack chairs, situated at precise horizon level to ensure maximum sunset viewing. Even the shower comes with its own stunning Gulf view, thanks to a strategically situated window. Book a Premium Gulf View Room to optimize the views or, for the ultimate stay, indulge in one of two Rotunda Gulf View Suites for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico. Those guests looking to enjoy a larger family getaway can also book one of the hotel’s Family Suites, situated just footsteps from the sand.
At The Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach®, guest rooms are intimate in scale and classic in style. Every room showcases picturesque views of either the Gulf, Town or Pool. The rooms’ private balcony ensures you’ll get the most out of your stay, whether taking in a sunset, listening to the sounds of the charming coastal town, or rising with the sun and a cup of freshly brewed coffee. For an extra special stay, book one of the hotel’s nine Gulf-View Suites. Looking to splurge? The Pearl Suite comes equipped with its own separate master bedroom with private balcony, soaking tub and rainfall shower.
Camp Creek Inn is scenic highway 30A’s newest 75-room boutique hotel where guests can enjoy a “Member for a Stay” experience. This one-of-a-kind destination provides guests with access to a world-class beach club, five expansive resort-style pools, a two-story 11,000-square-foot Wellness Center, and two championship golf courses. Nestled among towering pines and lush greens, the inn’s guest rooms highlight stunning views of the grounds, including Camp Creek Golf Course designed by acclaimed architect, Tom Fazio. Many of the rooms reflect a rustic coastal charm taking inspiration from Florida’s Gulf Coast and the historic mansions of Louisiana’s Great River Road. Camp Creek Inn has something for every guest whether it’s an intimate couple’s getaway in a Junior Golf Suite or a lively family vacation in a spacious double-Queen guest room. Many of our rooms also come equipped with their own private balconies for morning coffee or evening cocktails overlooking the pristine golf course. Looking for more space? The Pine Suite provides the perfect getaway for guests looking for additional space and privacy with a separate living room.
And of course, we can’t forget about Watersound Inn, which provides a home-away-from-home experience on 30A. All of the boutique Inn’s 11 suites are approximately 1,000 sq. ft. and feature a spacious, airy floor plan that includes a separate King bedroom with private furnished balcony overlooking the quaint WaterSound® Beach community.
Turns out when you visit the beach with The St. Joe Company, you can count on a memorable, comfortable stay that’s sure to leave you feeling relaxed, while your eyes do a whole lot of admiring. Sit back and take it all in…
Beach season is almost upon us, which means longer days spent on Northwest Florida’s beautiful shores and enjoying the Gulf’s turquoise waters. It also means respecting our natural surroundings and local rules for your safety, the safety of others and the safety of area wildlife.
Whether you’re staying at WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel, The Lodge 30A, Camp Creek Inn or WaterSound Inn, your beach experience deserves to be an unforgettable one. To help make your escape to the beach a safe one, our friends at the South Walton County TDC have put together a treasure trove of resources, which we’re sharing with you here!
Pay Attention to Beach Flags
Knowing whether you should go in or stay out is as easy as knowing your colors, thanks to our local beach flag warnings. Double red flags flying? The water is closed to the public, and water activity is prohibited (in fact Entering the Gulf during double red flag conditions can result in fines and criminal charges). A red flag means high hazard due to high surf and/or strong currents, whereas a yellow flag implies a medium hazard, with moderate surf and/or currents. When a green flag is flying, hazard is low, but you should still exercise caution. Is a purple flag in the mix? Watch out for man o’ wars, jellyfish and stingrays nearby.
Be Mindful of Rip Currents
Rip currents are common in the Gulf of Mexico and can be extremely dangerous, so it’s important to pay attention to the beach flags and know the surf conditions before entering the water. If you see someone caught in a rip currently, notify a lifeguard right away and call 911. If possible, throw them a flotation device and don’t lose sight of them. Do not enter the water under any circumstance, as you will also get caught in the strong current. If you unexpectedly find yourself in a rip current, stay calm and float with the current until it dissipates; do not try swimming against it. If possible, swim parallel to shore and back in until help can get to you.
Know the Rules of the Beach
Safety comes first, and so does the protection of our natural environment and local wildlife. That means leaving no trace! Littering and glass containers are not permitted, and any items left on the beach overnight will be discarded unless otherwise permitted. Vehicles, dogs and bonfires all require permits. Take a lasting look, but taking sand, water or vegetation from our beaches is strictly prohibited. Also, please stay off the dunes, and be sure to follow local ordinances during Sea Turtle Season (late spring through early summer).
__
Time at the beach should be fun, relaxing and memorable for all of the right reasons. Learn more about local beach rules and ordinances from our friends at the South Walton County TDC. For Gulf conditions and flag updates, text “SAFETY” to 31279. Stay aware, courteous and safe out there!
As summer comes to an end and the families head back to school, there’s a shift in the air along 30A. The air becomes a bit cooler, the sunsets more vibrant and visitors relish in the quieter beaches. In fact, these are just a few reasons why the fall is prime season for girlfriends’ getaways to South Walton.
With a variety of accommodation options, delectable Gulf Coast dining, unrivaled sunsets, outdoor exploration and plentiful ways to relax, the only challenge you’ll have in planning your next escape with your girl gang is figuring out just what you’ll pack into your itinerary.
To get your planning started, we’ve pulled together a few of our top St. Joe resort experiences. Whether you’re seeking a full-service boutique hotel experience or a laidback home-away-from-home vibe, fun or relaxation indoors or outdoors, or simply looking to bask in the simplicities of the Gulf, these will surely have you and your friends covered.
Now, gather the ladies and get your getaway going! We look forward to welcoming you.
__
Make Yourself at Home
From full-service elegance to a more laidback, limited-service approach, St. Joe’s portfolio of lodging experiences provides consistent customer service, comfort and coastal style (of course).
Stay at South Walton’s only adult-oriented hotel, The Pearl Hotel in picturesque Rosemary Beach, for a thoughtfully curated boutique hotel experience that’s as distinct as each guest, complete with on-site dining, a spa, complimentary beach setups and more. Enjoy a quintessential and long-beloved 30A tradition at WaterColor Inn, the flagship of the iconic WaterColor community, and indulge in a guest experience that delivers on the extra touches, including a variety of pools and recreational opportunities. Seeking the ultimate in comfort and convenience? Escape to Seagrove Beach’s newest boutique hotel, The Lodge 30A, to enjoy a prime location and home-away-from-home hospitality. If you’re seeking rejuvenation and relaxation, Camp Creek Inn is the ideal location to meet your needs. Enjoy the privacy and serenity of this newly opened boutique hotel’s luxury accommodations and private club amenities.
Toast to Friendship
Cheers to good times spent with even better friends with an unforgettable dinner or cocktail celebration at any of our St. Joe dining establishments. Celebrate the joy of living, eating and drinking well at Havana Beach Bar & Grill, featuring a colorful food and cocktail menu that is equal parts Gulf Coast, equal parts Caribbean; or head to the Havana Beach Rooftop for tapas, cocktails and stunning sunset views. Indulge in a long-standing WaterColor dining tradition at Fish Out of Water, complete with fresh seafood and panoramic Gulf views.
And of course, you’ll find plentiful dining options along 30A, all in close proximity to The Lodge 30A, The Pearl Hotel and WaterColor Inn. Additionally, guests of WaterColor Inn also have access to a plethora of delectable offerings of Gather Kitchen + Bar and the WaterColor Beach Club. A stay at Camp Creek Inn affords you access to six private dining venues, including three onsite at the hotel.
Disconnect to Reconnect
Traveling with your friends offers an invaluable opportunity to disconnect and reconnect with one another, making simplicity and relaxation a tenet of the ultimate girlfriends’ getaway.
And there’s perhaps no more relaxing (or analog) 30A amenity than South Walton’s beaches themselves! With sugar-white sand and the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no surprise that our area’s beaches are consistently ranked among the best in the world. And whether you’re a guest of The Pearl Hotel, Camp Creek Inn, WaterColor Inn or The Lodge 30A, you and your girlfriends will have plentiful opportunities to soak in our beaches however you choose. Take in an early-morning dip, lounge in the sun to your heart’s content or indulge in an iconic 30A sunset with your toes in the sand.
For the ultimate R&R experience, book yourselves a service or two at Spa Pearl, where you can all enjoy an invigorating and therapeutic poolside spa escape.
Explore Like a Local
The sky is the limit when it comes to exploring South Walton’s natural wonders. Whether you stay in Rosemary Beach, Seagrove Beach or WaterColor, you’ll find yourself in close proximity to walking, biking hiking, kayaking or standup-paddleboarding your way through 30A’s coastal beauty. Rentals and excursions are available through the WaterColor BoatHouse (WaterColor Inn guests have special access to rentals), and there are plentiful parks and trails to explore on your own, too (we recommend the Watersound Trail, Deer Lake State Park and Western Lake). Guests of WaterColor Inn and The Pearl Hotel have access to complimentary bike rentals, so be sure to add pedaling through South Walton’s distinct beach communities to your itinerary!
Shop ‘til You Drop
We think every girlfriends’ getaway requires some retail therapy, and in 30A, you’ll find yourself in great company. No matter where you stay within the St. JoeÒ portfolio, you’ll find yourself in close proximity to some of the area’s best shops – from the merchants of Rosemary Beach and the stores of the WaterColor Town Center to the variety of amenities at Greenway Station and every beach community in between.
Step out in style with the latest seasonal styles from TheWaterColor Store (including items for the kiddos back home at WaterColor Kids); treat yourself to one-of-a-kind, locally made jewelry from Carrie Rhea Designs; or snag the essentials for recreating a relaxing spa experience at home at Spa Pearl. And because t’s not too early to get your holiday shopping started, our 30A Gift Guide may also come in handy.
Still on the fence on what to pack? We have you covered with our Beach Bag Essentials!
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of Northwest Florida’s newest coastal boutique inn, Camp Creek Inn — where every moment is curated to deliver an unparalleled “Member for a stay” experience. This luxurious 30A hotel is situated on the expansive grounds of Watersound Club Camp Creek, giving guests exclusive access to the full Watersound Club experience, from playing on the prestigious Camp Creek Golf Course to enjoying concierge-style service at the Beach Club. Discover refined leisure, local adventure and luxurious amenities for yourself with this itinerary for a dreamy 4-day getaway at Camp Creek Inn.
Day 1: Arrival and Indulgence
Welcome to Camp Creek Inn, where luxury meets tranquility. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our attentive staff, ready to cater to your every need. Check in to your elegantly appointed room and take a moment to unwind and soak in the serene ambiance of your surroundings. Stretch your legs during a game of tennis or pickleball on one the state-of-the-art courts dotted around the property, and in the evening, treat yourself to a delectable dinner at one of our on-site restaurants. Raise a toast to the beginning of your unforgettable stay!
Day 2: Tee Off in Paradise
Rise and shine! Today, become a golfing pro and embark on a golfing adventure like no other. Enjoy exclusive access to both Camp Creek Golf Course, a pristine oasis nestled amidst breathtaking natural landscapes, and Shark’s Tooth Golf Course, just a short drive away. Begin your day at the state-of-the-art Golf Performance Center and pro shop, then tee off and let the games begin. Lose yourself in the course, surrounded by lush fairways and azure skies. Finish the day on the patio overlooking the 18th hole at the Shark’s Tooth, relishing in well-deserved refreshments and camaraderie with fellow golf enthusiasts.
Day 3: Coastal Escapades
Indulge in the allure of nearby coastal wonders and discover all of the things to do in Watersound. Spend the day exploring the sugar-white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters that grace the shoreline at Watersound Beach Club. After settling in with your complimentary beach setup, bask in the Florida sun, feel the gentle breeze dance across your skin and stay cool with refreshing dips in the gentle Gulf waters or in one of the Club’s resort-style pools. Capture the beauty of the coastal scenery with a leisurely stroll along the shore, collecting seashells as souvenirs of your beachfront escapade. Stay fueled up during your day at the beach at the Beach Club’s two restaurants, including outdoor dining at Beach Break Grill.
Day 4: Relaxation and Wellness
Today is dedicated to pure relaxation and rejuvenation. Begin your day with an invigorating expert-led fitness class at the brand-new 11,000+ sq. ft. Wellness Center. Afterward, head to our expansive pool complex, featuring private cabanas, pristine pools and a lazy river. Lounge poolside with a drink in hand or simply float along the lazy river, embracing the spirit of vacation. Try southern-inspired comfort food during your afternoon by the pool at Bark N’ Brine, the perfect spot to unwind with friends or family.
Inspired by the beauty of Camp Creek Inn and the “Member for a stay” experience, we invite you to secure your reservation and embark on a journey of pure indulgence. Let the idyllic landscapes, exquisite amenities and warm hospitality elevate your stay to extraordinary heights.